I think some of you are confused by numbers at the DT position. In our current scheme (4-3) we have 2 DTs on the field at a time, we don't need to have an ACTIVE 5 deep at the position (10 total DTs), we should be redshirting a bunch. What we need is quality backups and to develop the kids...so as it stands
2014 Depth Chart
Pierre (Sr)
Moore (Jr)
King (Jr)
Stuckey (JUCO)
Valentine (Fr)
Jenkins (Fr)
Then you have kids that could play DT
Grimble (SR)
Hamilton (SR)
Kamala (JUCO)
As it stands we have 6 Scholarship DTs and 3 More who could play DT. Of the 6, 2 of them should not be playing their freshman year. I think the safe bet would be to take 1-2 more JUCO, not because Moore/King or won't pan out but because if Pierre leaves early we are seriously lacking in elder statesmen.
So my guess is if we only count the 6 Scholarship DTs as the only DTs (i.e. Grimble, Hamilton and Kamala are DEs) then bring in 2-3 total DTs but at the same time I would cut the weakest link.
9 True DTs, varying in age group spread out. 3 of them can redshirt.
2014 DT Depth Chart (Hopeful)
Pierre (Sr)
Moore (Jr)
King (Jr)
Stuckey (JUCO)
JUCO to be named later
JUCO to be named later
Valentine (Fr) [REDSHIRT]
Jenkins (Fr) [REDSHIRT]
2014 Freshman [REDSHIRT]
Nice post. In other words, either Stuckey turns into a future NFLer immediately, King or Moore turn into Santonio Thomas-types, or we'll rely on a true freshman DT who is known for his raw abilities. All of this while potentially having the most dynamic offensive player in the NCAA as a Junior, a veteran group of WRs, a potential Top 10 pick at LT + 3 other 3-4 year starters, an NFL defensive backfield, a few NFL contributors at DE and a Butkus Award candidate at LB.
Yeah, so, all resources should be thrown at another JuCo DT who can save all of that from going to waste. Please.